Healthcare Professional Defence

Contact a defence solicitor immediately when you become aware of any complaint, allegation, investigation, or legal action against you. Early intervention can significantly impact outcomes. Don't wait for formal proceedings to begin - seek advice as soon as you're aware of concerns about your practice or conduct.

Coverage depends on your specific policy and the nature of allegations. Most medical defence organisations cover regulatory proceedings, clinical negligence defence, and employment issues, but may have limits or exclusions. Review your coverage and consider additional protection for complex cases that might exceed policy limits.

Yes, you may face interim suspension or conditions during investigations if there's considered to be a serious risk to patients, public confidence, or your own interests. Interim orders are precautionary measures that don't imply guilt. They can be challenged and are regularly reviewed throughout the investigation process.

Exercise your right to remain silent and request a solicitor immediately. Do not answer questions without legal representation present. Contact your medical defence organisation and a specialist criminal defence solicitor experienced in healthcare cases. Avoid discussing the case with colleagues or on social media.

Criminal charges, especially convictions, can have serious implications for professional registration. You must notify your regulatory body of arrests, charges, and convictions. Even charges that don't result in conviction may trigger fitness to practise proceedings. Early legal advice is crucial to minimise professional consequences.

It depends on the nature and severity of the conviction. Minor offences may not prevent continued practice, while serious crimes typically result in erasure from professional registers. Each case is assessed individually considering factors like the nature of the offence, time elapsed, rehabilitation, and risk to patients.

Coroner's inquests investigate deaths where medical treatment may be a factor. As a healthcare professional, you may be required to give evidence about the care provided. The coroner determines the cause of death and may make recommendations to prevent future deaths. Legal representation helps protect your interests during proceedings.

Maintain excellent record-keeping, follow all policies and procedures, ensure proper informed consent, maintain professional boundaries, work within your competence, seek support when needed, and maintain appropriate professional indemnity insurance. Regular training and staying current with best practices also provide protection.

Yes, the Public Interest Disclosure Act protects healthcare workers who raise concerns about patient safety or care standards. However, protection depends on following proper procedures and raising genuine concerns in good faith. Specialist legal advice helps ensure you're properly protected when raising serious concerns.

Capability proceedings address performance issues, lack of skills, or competence concerns, usually offering support and training. Disciplinary proceedings deal with misconduct, policy breaches, or inappropriate behaviour, potentially leading to sanctions including dismissal. Both can impact professional registration and require specialist legal representation.do I need for a medical negligence claim?"